February 2025 Update

The past few weeks have felt less eventful than we are used to, but as I write this letter, I am realizing it has been busier than it appeared.

In January, we celebrated Daniel’s (9) and Ellie’s (11) birthdays with dual celebrations. We hosted a small family gathering in the states just before Daniel’s birthday on the 11th, followed by a meeting with fellow missionaries for Ellie’s birthday on the 31st after we arrived in Bolivia.

At the beginning of February, we welcomed the Blackburn family as new missionaries to Bolivia, joining us as co-laborers. They arrived with their two sons, who helped bring down some supplies before heading back to the states. We initially had a house reserved for them before they arrived, but that plan changed, allowing us to find them a nicer home at a lower cost. Once they settled in, the house needed to be furnished. As missionaries, all we have when we arrive here are our suitcases, so they required everything from beds and stoves to brooms and clothespins. The first couple of weeks of the month were dedicated to helping them find the essentials to transform their house into a home. This experience reminded me of the support we received from a missionary when we first arrived over 11 years ago. We had no idea what we were doing or where to seek help, so it was a tremendous blessing to have someone assist us in getting settled. Now, it has been a privilege to extend that same support to others.

We have held a couple of meetings regarding the Bible institute we are working to establish. I am realizing that it will require more in-depth planning for the institute’s proper development than I initially anticipated. Several churches are already expressing interest in being part of this initiative. The need for this training is greater than I originally realized. Pray we are able to put together all the proper guidelines that will glorify God as believers are further grounded in His truth.

Before closing this month’s letter, I would like to ask for your prayers for Pastor Juan. He is the man who took over our first church after the original pastor stepped down. He and his family are still in the process of moving to a home closer to the church, but as is often the case here, it is taking longer than expected. Additionally, he is dealing with numerous health issues that are affecting both him and the church. We would greatly appreciate your prayers for him, as he has faced significant challenges over the past several months and could use some encouragement.

Thank you for your ongoing prayers for our family and for the ministry here in Bolivia. Your faithfulness means so much to us.